Systems and methods for detecting and reconstructing objects in a non - continuous flow of articles in an imaging system

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for detecting and reconstructing an object in a non - continuous flow of articles in an imaging system. A controller is provided for detecting an object moving in a first direction in a computed tomography (CT) imaging system. The controller is configured to detect the object by assembling a plurality of segments based on a plurality of CT imaging slices. In response to receiving a stop request, the controller is configured to detect the object by: causing the CT imaging system to terminate the flow of the object, discarding one or more of the plurality of CT imaging slices associated with a first segment and a second segment of the plurality of segments, causing the CT imaging system to move the object in a second direction opposite to the first direction by an interruption distance, causing the CT imaging system to move the object in the first direction, and reassembling the first segment and the second segment.

Description

Background Art

[0001] Embodiments described herein generally relate to image processing, and more particularly to detecting objects in a continuous stream of items based on imaging data generated by a computed tomography (CT) imaging system.

[0002] Known checkpoint scanning systems, such as Advanced Technology X-ray (AT) systems or Threat Image Projection Ready X-ray (TRX) systems, are designed to scan a continuous stream of luggage and other objects to provide an appropriate throughput for passengers at, for example, airport checkpoints. However, it is common for operators of checkpoint scanning systems to start and stop the flow of items for a number of reasons, such as, for example, further reviewing a piece of suspicious luggage or a passenger holding up the security line. Due to the nature of the technology used to acquire image data, this is not a problem for AT and TRX systems. In contrast, for CT scanning systems, this start and stop during image data acquisition is a problem. It makes the reconstruction process computationally much more intensive relative to the reconstruction process associated with acquiring image data at a constant speed and spacing.

[0003] Thus, reconstructing images from data acquired during acceleration and deceleration periods where the spacing is constantly changing remains daunting. To attempt to cope with the reconstruction processing during start and stop using conventional techniques, a relatively powerful computer would be required to handle the computational complexity of the variable spacing in a reasonable amount of time. However, these more powerful computers are still prohibitively expensive for security checkpoint applications. When using traditional computers to process the complex calculations of variable spacing that occur during the start and stop of a continuous stream of items, the large amount of time required to reconstruct CT images is still not practical for the high passenger throughput required, for example, at checkpoints. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In one aspect, an object detection controller is provided for detecting an object moving in a first direction in a computed tomography (CT) imaging system. The object detection controller includes a processor coupled to a memory device and the CT imaging system. The object detection controller is configured to detect the object by receiving CT imaging data generated by the CT imaging system, generating a plurality of CT imaging slices based on the CT imaging data, and assembling a plurality of segments based on the generated plurality of CT imaging slices. Additionally, two adjacent segments of the plurality of segments include at least one substantially identical CT imaging slice. In response to receiving a stop request, the object detection controller is configured to cause the CT imaging system to terminate the flow of the object and discard one or more of the plurality of CT imaging slices associated with a first segment and a second segment of the plurality of segments, where the first segment and the second segment are assembled at the time the stop request is received. And in response to receiving a stop request, the object detection controller is configured to cause the CT imaging system to move the object in a second direction opposite to the first direction by an interruption distance. Further in response to receiving a stop request, the object detection controller is configured to cause the CT imaging system to move the object in the first direction and reassemble the first segment and the second segment based on newly received CT imaging slices.

[0005] In another aspect, a computer-implemented method is provided for detecting an object moving in a first direction in a computed tomography (CT) imaging system. The method is implemented using an object detection device that includes a processor coupled to a memory device and the CT imaging system. The method includes receiving CT imaging data generated by the CT imaging system, generating a plurality of CT imaging slices based on the CT imaging data, and assembling a plurality of segments based on the generated plurality of CT imaging slices. Additionally, two adjacent segments of the plurality of segments include at least one substantially identical CT imaging slice. In response to receiving a stop request, the method further includes causing the CT imaging system to terminate the flow of the object and discard one or more of the plurality of CT imaging slices associated with a first segment and a second segment of the plurality of segments, where the first segment and the second segment are assembled at the time the stop request is received. And in response to receiving a stop request, the method includes causing the CT imaging system to move the object in a second direction opposite to the first direction by an interruption distance. Further in response to receiving a stop request, the method includes causing the CT imaging system to move the object in the first direction and reassemble the first segment and the second segment based on newly received CT imaging slices.

[0006] In yet another aspect, at least one non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided having computer-executable instructions embodied thereon for detecting an object moving in a first direction in a computed tomography (CT) imaging system. When executed by at least one processor, the computer-executable instructions cause the processor to receive CT imaging data generated by the CT imaging system, generate a plurality of CT imaging slices from the CT imaging data, and assemble a plurality of segments based on the generated plurality of CT imaging slices. Additionally, two adjacent segments of the plurality of segments include at least one substantially identical CT imaging slice. In response to receiving a stop request, the computer-executable instructions cause the CT imaging system to terminate the flow of the object and discard one or more of the plurality of CT imaging slices associated with a first segment and a second segment of the plurality of segments, where the first segment and the second segment are assembled at the time the stop request is received. And in response to receiving a stop request, the computer-executable instructions cause the CT imaging system to move the object in a second direction by an interruption distance, where the second direction is opposite to the first direction. Further in response to receiving a stop request, the computer-executable instructions cause the CT imaging system to move the object in the first direction and reassemble the first segment and the second segment based on newly received CT imaging slices. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Figures 1-5 Illustrative embodiments of the systems and methods described herein are shown.

[0008] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary system for detecting an object based on imaging data generated by a computed tomography (CT) imaging system, the computed tomography (CT) imaging system including an object detection controller;

[0009] Figure 2 is a schematic block diagram of an object detection device that can be used to implement the Figure 1 system shown in;

[0010] Figure 3 is a schematic block diagram of a server computing device that can be used to implement the Figure 1 system shown in; and

[0011] Figure 4 is an illustrative view of a scanned and reconstructed continuous flow of an object and a plurality of segments for creating a continuous flow of an object from a CT imaging system as shown in Figure 1 ;

[0012] Figure 5 is to stop the flow of the object, reverse relative to the flow of the object, and start the flow of the object again to from as shown in Figure 1An illustrative view of a scanned and reconstructed continuous stream of objects in a CT imaging system reconstruction section as shown. Detailed Description

[0013] In the following specification and claims, a number of terms will be referred to that are defined to have the following meanings.

[0014] The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0015] Approximating language, as used throughout the specification and claims herein, is applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by one or more terms such as "about," "approximately," and "substantially" is not limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of the instrument used to measure the value. Herein and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations are combined and interchanged, and such ranges are identified and include all subranges contained therein unless the context or language indicates otherwise.

[0016] As used herein, the terms "processor" and "computer" and related terms, such as "processing device," "computing device," and "controller," are not limited solely to those integrated circuits referred to as computers in the art, but broadly refer to microcontrollers, microcomputers, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and application specific integrated circuits, as well as other programmable circuits, and these terms are used interchangeably herein. In the embodiments described herein, the memory may include, but is not limited to, computer-readable media such as random access memory (RAM), computer-readable non-volatile media such as flash memory. Alternatively, floppy disks, compact disk-read only memory (CD-ROM), magneto-optical disks (MOD), and / or digital versatile disks (DVD) may also be used. Moreover, in the embodiments described herein, additional input channels may be, but are not limited to, computer peripherals associated with an operator interface, such as a mouse and keyboard. Alternatively, other computer peripherals may be used, which may include, for example but not limited to, scanners. Additionally, in an exemplary embodiment, additional output channels may include, but are not limited to, an operator interface monitor.

[0017] Further, as used herein, the terms "software" and "firmware" are interchangeable and include any computer program storage in memory for execution by personal computers, workstations, clients, and servers.

[0018] As used herein, "instantaneous" or "real-time" refers to a result occurring at a sufficiently short time period after the input. This time period is the result of the ability of the object detection device to process the image data to generate CT imaging slices and segments or the process control functions related to aspects of controlling the CT scanning system. An event that occurs instantaneously or in real-time occurs without a significant intentional delay or waiting time. In the embodiments described herein, these activities and events occur substantially instantaneously.

[0019] As used herein, the term "non-transitory computer-readable medium" is intended to represent any tangible computer-based device for short-term and long-term storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules and sub-modules, or other data in any device. Accordingly, the methods described herein may be encoded as executable instructions embodied in a tangible non-transitory computer-readable medium (including but not limited to storage devices and / or memory devices). Such instructions, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform at least part of the methods described herein. Moreover, as used herein, the term "non-transitory computer-readable medium" includes all tangible computer-readable media, including but not limited to non-transitory computer storage devices, including but not limited to volatile and non-volatile media, and removable and non-removable media such as firmware, physical and virtual storage, CD-ROM, DVD, and any other digital source such as a network or the Internet, and digital means yet to be developed, with the sole exception being transitory propagated signals.

[0020] The systems and methods described herein facilitate starting and stopping a CT scan scanner to scan a continuous flow of objects based on imaging data generated by a computed tomography (CT) imaging system including at least an object detection controller.

[0021] The subject matter described herein includes an object detector that, in part, addresses the challenges described above by performing a reconstruction process that allows an operating CT scan system to stop and restart with minimal downtime and minimal computational effort. When a reviewer is using a CT scan system to monitor a continuous flow of objects (e.g., and without limitation, multiple pieces of luggage, bags, shoes, coats, and any other items) at, for example, an airport security checkpoint, there are various reasons to stop the flow of the objects or items through the CT scanner. However, stopping the flow of the objects results in a deceleration period, and conversely, an acceleration period when the flow of the objects or items resumes. The resulting variable spacing during these periods of non-constant speed adds computational complexity to the reconstruction process. Accordingly, the techniques described herein advantageously allow an operating CT scan system to be stopped, the flow of the objects to be automatically reversed a predetermined distance, and restarted with minimal downtime and minimal computational effort.

[0022] More specifically, an object detection controller for detecting an object in a computed tomography imaging system is provided. The object detection device includes a processor coupled to a memory device and a CT imaging system. The object detection controller receives CT imaging data from the CT imaging system. In addition, the object detection controller generates a plurality of CT imaging slices based on the CT imaging data. The object detection controller assembles overlapping segments based on the plurality of generated CT imaging slices. For example, two adjacent segments include one or more of the same CT imaging slices such that each CT imaging slice is associated with at least two different segments and stored in two different locations in a memory or storage. Further, when a reviewer initiates a stop request (or any other power to request the CT scanner to stop), the object detection controller receives the stop request and causes the CT imaging system to terminate the flow of the article. The object detection controller discards one or more CT imaging slices associated with a first segment and a second segment among the plurality of segments, the first segment and the second segment both being assembled at the time the stop request is requested. The object detector controller causes the CT imaging system to move the object in a direction opposite to the flow of the object by an interruption distance. The interruption distance is at least equal to the sum of the deceleration distance and the acceleration distance. The object detector controller causes the CT imaging system to move the object in the direction of the flow of the article and reassemble the first segment and the second segment based on newly received CT imaging slices.

[0023] In some embodiments, the object detection device stores the plurality of CT imaging slices associated with one or more segments as a three-dimensional representation of the object. In some implementations, the object detection device is housed within (e.g., incorporated within) the CT imaging system.

[0024] Figure 1FIG. 0 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary object detection system 100 for detecting objects in a continuous flow of items from a CT imaging system 102, the CT imaging system 102 including a conveyor belt 108 and a CT imaging scanner 106 communicatively coupled to an object detection controller 104. The CT imaging system 102 is described herein with respect to a particular example of a checkpoint scanner (e.g., as part of a security process at an airport, train station, courthouse, or any other type of security checkpoint). It should be understood that the CT imaging system 102 can also be utilized in other applications. Additionally, the CT imaging system 102 includes a processor (not shown), a memory (not shown), and a rotating gantry (not shown) including a plurality of imaging devices 110. A motor 124 is configured to operate the conveyor belt 108 in the direction of flow 122 of the objects or in the opposite direction of the flow of the objects. The conveyor belt 108 is configured to transport items 112, 114, 116 (e.g., and without limitation, luggage, bags, coats, shoes, plastic boxes for loose objects, or briefcases) to be axially imaged through the rotating gantry. Each of the plurality of imaging devices 110 is configured to capture image data of the items 112, 114, 116 passing through its channel. Each of the plurality of imaging devices 110 can include a camera, scanner, laser, detector, and / or any other suitable imaging device or combination thereof. The imaging devices 110 can be coupled to and / or integrated with the rotating gantry. For example and without limitation, the imaging devices 110 include a plurality of X-ray detectors arranged in a two-dimensional (2D) array or any other suitable arrangement. The image data is transmitted to the object detection controller 104 via an imaging signal.

[0025] The object detection controller 104 includes a memory 118 communicatively coupled to a processor 120. The processor 120 is configured to execute instructions stored in the memory that implement the detection and / or process control methods or algorithms described herein. In an exemplary embodiment, the implementation of the detection method includes a plurality of computational and process control steps. Advantageously, when a continuous flow 404 of objects moves in the direction of flow as a continuous display to a reviewer, the object detection controller 104 allows the reviewer to select a particular section to more closely analyze the objects or content represented within the section. Moreover, the object detection controller 104 allows the CT scanning system, which has been stopped, to automatically reverse the flow of the objects a predetermined distance and restart with minimal downtime and minimal computational effort.

[0026] The CT imaging system 102 (and the object detection controller 104) further communicates directly (e.g., wirelessly or wired) with one or more external computing devices 150. While in Figure 1Only one external computing device 150 is shown, but any number of external computing devices 150 may communicate with the CT imaging system 102. Alternatively, one or more other computing devices (such as and without limitation, image processing computing devices, process control computing devices, external controllers, batch processing computing devices, or any other external computing device) may be communicatively coupled to the CT imaging system 102 and / or one or both of the external computing devices 150. The CT imaging system 102 transmits 2D or three-dimensional (3D) representations to the external computing device 150 across an image data signal. The image data signal includes human-perceivable image data, which generally represents the scanned object in a human-perceivable 2D or 3D representation and is generated by the object detection controller 104 after implementation of an object detection algorithm on the image data, the reconstructed-transformed image data (based on the image data), or any other type of data. In one embodiment, the external computing device 150 is configured to process the received image data before displaying a visual representation 158 of the human-perceivable image data on the output device 152. In another embodiment, the CT imaging system 102 (or the object detection controller 104 therein) transmits the human-perceivable image data substantially continuously and substantially in real time. In some embodiments, the CT imaging system 102 (or the object detection controller 104 therein) transmits human-perceivable image data, which may be configured to interact with the user in a three-dimensional manner, such as allowing the user to rotate, pan, spin, or otherwise manipulate the 3D representation of the scanned object based on segments.

[0027] Figure 2 can be used to implement ( Figure 1 shown in) a schematic block diagram of a computing device 202 of the system 100. For example, the object detection controller 104 and / or the external computing device 150 may be implemented using the computing device 202. The computing device 202 includes at least one memory device 210 and a processor 205 coupled to the memory device 210 for executing instructions. In some implementations, the executable instructions are stored in the memory device 210. In an exemplary implementation, the computing device 202 is programmed by the processor 205 to perform one or more operations described herein. For example, the processor 205 may be programmed by encoding the operations as one or more executable instructions and by providing the executable instructions in the memory device 210.

[0028] The processor 205 may include one or more processing units (e.g., in a multi-core configuration). Further, the processor 205 may be implemented using one or more heterogeneous processor systems in which a main processor is present together with one or more auxiliary processors on a single chip. In another illustrative example, the processor 205 may be a symmetric multi-processor system that includes multiple processors of the same type. Further, the processor 205 may be implemented using any suitable programmable circuitry, including one or more systems and microcontrollers, microprocessors, reduced instruction set circuits (RISC), application specific integrated circuits (ASIC), programmable logic circuitry, field programmable gate arrays (FPGA), and any other circuitry capable of performing the functions described herein.

[0029] In an exemplary implementation, the memory device 210 is one or more devices that enable information such as executable instructions and / or other data to be stored and retrieved. The memory device 210 may include one or more computer-readable media, such as but not limited to dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), solid state drives, and / or hard disks. The memory device 210 may be configured to store object detection algorithm instructions, image data, process control algorithm instructions, reconstruction transformation algorithms, and / or any other type of data without limitation.

[0030] In an exemplary implementation, the computing device 202 includes a media output 215 coupled to the processor 205. The media output 215 presents information to the user 201. For example, the media output 215 may include a display adapter (not shown) that may be coupled to a display device, such as a cathode ray tube (CRT), liquid crystal display (LCD), organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, and / or an "electronic ink" display. In some implementations, the media output 215 includes one or more display devices.

[0031] In an exemplary implementation, the computing device 202 includes a user input interface 220. The user input interface 220 is coupled to the processor 205 and receives input from the user 201. The user input interface 220 may include, for example, a keyboard, a pointing device, a mouse, a stylus, a touch-sensitive panel (e.g., a touch pad or a touch screen), a gyroscope, an accelerometer, a position detector, and / or an audio user input interface. A single component, such as a touch screen, may serve as both the display device of the media output 215 and the user input interface 220.

[0032] In an exemplary implementation, the computing device 202 includes a communication interface 225 coupled to the processor 205. The communication interface 225 communicates with one or more remote devices. To communicate with remote devices, the communication interface 225 may include, for example, a wired network adapter, a wireless network adapter, and / or a mobile telecommunications adapter.

[0033] Figure 3 is a schematic block diagram of the server computing device 302 that can be used to implement the system 100 (shown in Figure 1 ). For example, the object detection controller 104, the CT imaging system 102 can be implemented using the server computing device 302. The server computing device 302 includes a processor 304 for executing instructions. The instructions can be stored, for example, in the memory area 306. The processor 304 can include one or more processing units (e.g., in a multi-core configuration).

[0034] The processor 304 is operatively coupled to a communication interface 308 such that the server computing device 302 can communicate with remote devices such as ( Figure 2 shown in) the computing device 202 or another server computing device 302. The processor 304 can also be operatively coupled to a storage device 310. The storage device 310 is any computer-operable hardware suitable for storing and / or retrieving data. In some embodiments, the storage device 310 is integrated within the server computing device 302. For example, the server computing device 302 can include one or more hard disk drives as the storage device 310. In other embodiments, the storage device 310 is external to the server computing device 302 and can be accessed by multiple server computing devices 302. For example, the storage device 310 can include multiple storage units such as hard disks or solid state disks in a redundant array of inexpensive disks (RAID) configuration. The storage device 310 can include a storage area network (SAN) and / or a network-attached storage (NAS) system.

[0035] In some embodiments, the processor 304 is operatively coupled to the storage device 310 via a storage interface 312. The storage interface 312 is any component capable of providing the processor 304 access to the storage device 310. The storage interface 312 can include, for example, an advanced technology attachment (ATA) adapter, a serial ATA (SATA) adapter, a small computer system interface (SCSI) adapter, a RAID controller, a SAN adapter, a network adapter, and / or any component that provides the processor 304 access to the storage device 310.

[0036] The memory area 306 can include, but is not limited to, random access memory (RAM), such as dynamic RAM (DRAM) or static RAM (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and non-volatile RAM (NVRAM). The above memory types are merely examples and are not, therefore, restrictive as to the types of memory that can be used for the storage of computer programs.

[0037] Referring backFigure 1 In an example embodiment, the CT imaging scanner 106 obtains image data from captured images of objects or articles (such as, and without limitation, one or more of articles 112, 114, 116) in a continuous stream of objects using one or more of the imaging devices 110. Generally, the CT imaging scanner 106 acquires in a continuous stream of image data of the scanned article in any number of formats including helical image data as Figure 1 shown. The CT imaging scanner 106 (or alternatively, the object detection controller 104) may utilize a reconstruction transform or process to generate a series of CT image slices (i.e., CT image slice data). For example and without limitation, various reconstruction transform algorithms or methods may include ray consistency reconstruction, filtered back projection, Feldkamp reconstruction algorithm, or phi reconstruction algorithm. After capturing the image data and performing the reconstruction transform on the image data, the CT imaging scanner 106 transmits in a continuous manner to the object detection controller 104 CT imaging data including a series of multiple CT imaging slices for processing, the series of multiple CT imaging slices including a representation of the imaged stream of articles.

[0038] Upon receiving the CT imaging slices, the object detection controller 104 may process one or more CT imaging slices serially or in parallel. For clarity, the following process is described on a slice-by-slice basis, but it is understood that multiple CT imaging slices may be processed simultaneously. Moreover, the object detection controller 104 may assemble the CT imaging slices into segments according to any number or distribution among segments. For example and without limitation, each segment may include a fixed or equal number of CT imaging slices, or may include a variable number of CT imaging slices. Additionally, each segment may overlap with adjacent segments and "share" some of the same CT imaging slices. In other words, one or more CT imaging slices may be used to assemble two different segments. As a result, each CT imaging slice may appear in two different segments and be stored twice in memory or storage. In other implementations, each CT imaging slice may be stored once, but still be used in conjunction with two different segments by means of a pointer or other means.

[0039] Figure 4Illustrative view 400 of a scanned and reconstructed continuous stream 404 of an object and multiple segments 402 for creating the reconstructed continuous stream 404 of the object from a CT imaging system 100. The illustrated reconstructed continuous stream 404 of the object is a 3D representation that a human reviewer can view when analyzing the continuous stream of the object. Generally, the object detection controller 104 generates this 3D human-perceivable view of the reconstructed continuous stream 404 of the object by assembling or positioning individual segments 402 from one or more CT imaging slices. For example, segment B 402 includes CT imaging slices that include a representation of a portion of a bag (i.e., included on the left side of segment B 406), while segment C 402 includes CT imaging slices that include a representation of a backpack (i.e., included on the right side of segment C 408). Between these two segment portions 406, 408 is an overlapping portion 410, where both segment B and segment C include the same CT imaging slice. Each segment can be stored and retrieved individually based on an assigned reference identifier or index identifier. Moreover, each segment can include a timestamp associated with the date and time of one or more of the CT imaging slices captured and associated with the segment. The CT imaging scanner 106 can store location identifiers (e.g., indexed locations on a conveyor 108 and / or relative positions of items 112, 114, and 116), GPS coordinates, airport code identifiers, or any other type of specific identification information.

[0040] Advantageously, when the continuous stream 404 of the object moves in the flow direction as in a continuous display to a reviewer, the object detection controller 104 allows the reviewer to select a particular segment to more closely analyze the object or content represented within the segment. Moreover, prohibited items can be automatically selected or otherwise highlighted to the reviewer. By way of example and not limitation, the reviewer can select segment B by "grabbing" the segment 402 with a user interface device or by any other suitable means of selecting a particular segment. In response to receiving the segment 402 selection, the object detection controller 104 can cause the physical movement of the continuous stream 404 of the object to terminate and zoom in on the selected segment. Additionally, the object detection controller 104 can change the interaction of the zoomed-in segment 402 such that the representation of the 3D object is interactive. As a result, the object detection controller 104 allows the reviewer to rotate, translate, scale, and otherwise interact with the representation of the 3D object with respect to the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis associated with segment 402.

[0041] Continuing with this example, in response to receiving the selection of the section 402, the object detection controller 104 causes the CT imaging scanner 106, the conveyor belt 108, the motor 124, or any other mechanism to physically stop the flow of the object. In one embodiment, the object detection controller 104 transmits a command to the motor 124 to terminate the operation of the conveyor belt 108. When the motor 124 receives this command and terminates the operation, the conveyor belt 108 begins to slow down by decelerating until the conveyor belt 108 comes to a complete stop. Alternatively, the reviewer or any other person may select a stop selector (whether software, electrical, or mechanically driven) to generate a stop request that is transmitted to the object detection controller 104.

[0042] Figure 5 is an illustrative view 500 of a continuous stream 502 of scanned and reconstructed objects, where the motor 124 has terminated the operation and the conveyor belt 108 has stopped. For illustration, a deceleration distance 510 is indicated on the reconstructed continuous stream of objects 502, which indicates the distance that the conveyor belt 108 (and the corresponding object) travels in a decelerated manner after the motor 124 has terminated the operation. The deceleration distance 510 may be predetermined and stored as a fixed distance, or it may be determined dynamically for each stop request received. Additionally, for illustration, an acceleration distance 512 is also indicated on the reconstructed continuous stream of objects 502, which indicates the distance required for the conveyor belt 108 (and the corresponding article) to accelerate to a constant speed state. The acceleration distance 512 may be predetermined and stored as a fixed distance.

[0043] In any event, in response to receiving the stop request, the object detection controller 104 causes the motor 124 to terminate the operation, which stops the conveyor belt 108 and the object. The object detection controller 104 deletes or discards any CT imaging slices acquired after the stop request is received. In some embodiments, the object detection controller 104 may discard the section acquired at the time the stop request is received. As Figure 5 shown, a stop request is received at point 514, during which a partial section 516 is acquired. Since the partial section 512 is included in the second half of section C and the first half of section D, the second half of C and the entire section D are deleted. The object detection controller 104 causes the motor 124 to operate in the reverse direction, such that the conveyor belt 108 moves an interruption distance 518 in a direction opposite to the object flow.

[0044] The interruption distance 518 is greater than the sum of the deceleration distance 510 and the acceleration distance 512. In other words, the object detection controller 104 moves the conveyor belt 108 (and the corresponding object) in a direction opposite to the object flow by a distance greater than the combined deceleration distance 510 and acceleration distance 512. This interruption distance 518 allows for buffering during the deceleration and acceleration periods, during which the CT imaging scanner 106 captures variable pitch. In some embodiments, the object detection controller 104 may move the conveyor belt 108 further than the combined two distances of the deceleration distance 510 and the acceleration distance 512. For example, the object detection controller 104 may reverse the conveyor belt 108 by the interruption distance 518 so that new imaging data can be reacquired from point 520, at which the last CT imaging was acquired during the constant speed period. Thus, as Figure 5 shown, the object detection controller 104 reverses the conveyor belt 108 by the acceleration distance 512, which is further beyond the point 520 at which the last CT imaging slice was acquired at a constant speed. Further, the object detection controller 104 causes the motor 124 to become operative such that when the conveyor belt 108 reaches point 520, the conveyor belt 108 is moving at a constant speed and the CT imaging slices are properly captured at a fixed pitch. As a result, section C is reconstructed or reassembled by using the second half of section B (previously acquired before receiving the stop request) and the reacquired first half of section D (as shown in the third line of Figure 5 .

[0045] Computers, such as those described herein, include at least one processor or processing unit and system memory. A computer typically has at least some form of computer-readable medium. By way of example and not limitation, computer-readable media include computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media includes volatile and nonvolatile, removable and nonremovable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. Communication media typically embodies computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism and includes any information delivery media. Those skilled in the art are familiar with the modulated data signals, which have one or more of their characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal. Any combination of the above is also included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0046] Exemplary embodiments of methods and systems have been described in detail above. The methods and systems are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein. Instead, the components of the system and / or the steps of the method can be used independently and separately from other components and / or steps described herein. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments can be implemented and used in conjunction with many other applications not specifically described herein.

[0047] Although specific features of various embodiments of the present disclosure may be shown in some figures and not in others, this is for convenience only. In accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, any feature of a figure can be referenced and / or claimed in combination with any feature of any other figure.

[0048] This written description uses examples to disclose various embodiments, including the best mode, and also enables any person skilled in the art to practice the present disclosure, including making and using any device or system and performing any incorporated method. The patentable scope of the present disclosure is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. An object detection controller for analyzing an object moving in a first direction in a computed tomography (CT) imaging system, the object detection controller including a processor coupled to a memory device and the CT imaging system, the object detection controller being configured to analyze the object by: Receiving CT imaging data generated by the CT imaging system; Generating a plurality of CT imaging slices based on the CT imaging data; Assembling a plurality of segments based on the generated plurality of CT imaging slices, wherein two adjacent segments include one or more of the same CT imaging slices; Receiving a selection of a segment among the plurality of segments; Terminating the physical movement of the object; Discarding one or more of the plurality of CT imaging slices associated with a first segment and a second segment among the plurality of segments, wherein the first segment and the second segment are assembled at the time of terminating the physical movement of the object; and Allowing a reviewer to interact with a representation of the 3D object with respect to an axis associated with the segment; Wherein assembling the first segment and the second segment at the time of terminating the physical movement of the object includes moving the object an interruption distance in a second direction opposite to the first direction such that the object moves at a constant speed in the first direction and CT imaging slices are captured at a fixed pitch, and reassembling a third segment by using a second half of the first segment and a re-acquired first half of the second segment.

2. The object detection controller according to claim 1, wherein the interaction with the representation of the 3D object includes one or more of rotation, translation, and scaling.

3. The object detection controller according to claim 1, wherein the axis includes one or more of an x-axis, a y-axis, and a z-axis.

4. The object detection controller according to claim 1, wherein the selection of a segment among the plurality of segments is performed by a user interface device.

5. A computer-implemented method for analyzing an object moving in a first direction in a computed tomography (CT) imaging system, the method being implemented using an object detection device including a processor coupled to a memory device and the CT imaging system, the method including: Receiving CT imaging data generated by the CT imaging system; Generating a plurality of CT imaging slices based on the CT imaging data; Assembling a plurality of segments based on the generated plurality of CT imaging slices, wherein two adjacent segments include one or more of the same CT imaging slices; Receiving a selection of a segment among the plurality of segments; Terminating the physical movement of the object; Discarding one or more of the plurality of CT imaging slices associated with a first segment and a second segment among the plurality of segments, wherein the first segment and the second segment are assembled at the time of terminating the physical movement of the object; and Allowing a reviewer to interact with a representation of the 3D object with respect to an axis associated with the segment; Wherein assembling the first segment and the second segment at the time of terminating the physical movement of the object includes moving the object an interruption distance in a second direction opposite to the first direction such that the object moves at a constant speed in the first direction and CT imaging slices are captured at a fixed pitch, and reassembling a third segment by using a second half of the first segment and a re-acquired first half of the second segment.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein the interaction with the representation of the 3D object comprises one or more of rotation, translation, and scaling.

7. The method according to claim 5, wherein the axis comprises one or more of the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis.

8. The method according to claim 5, wherein the selection of the segment among the plurality of segments is performed by a user interface device.

9. At least one non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having computer-executable instructions embodied thereon for analyzing an object moving in a first direction in a computed tomography (CT) imaging system, wherein when executed by at least one processor, the computer-executable instructions cause the processor to: Receive CT imaging data generated by the CT imaging system; Generate a plurality of CT imaging slices based on the CT imaging data; Assemble a plurality of segments based on the generated plurality of CT imaging slices, wherein two adjacent segments comprise one or more of the same CT imaging slices; Receive a selection of a segment among the plurality of segments; Terminate the physical movement of the object; Discard one or more of the plurality of CT imaging slices associated with a first segment and a second segment among the plurality of segments, wherein the first segment and the second segment are assembled at the time of terminating the physical movement of the object; and Allow a reviewer to interact with the representation of the 3D object with respect to an axis associated with the segment; wherein the assembling of the first segment and the second segment at the time of terminating the physical movement of the object comprises moving the object an interruption distance in a second direction opposite to the first direction such that the object moves at a constant speed in the first direction and CT imaging slices are captured at a fixed pitch, and reassembling a third segment by using a second half of the first segment and a re-acquired first half of the second segment.

10. The at least one non-transitory computer-readable storage medium according to claim 9, wherein the interaction with the representation of the 3D object comprises one or more of rotation, translation, and scaling.

11. The at least one non-transitory computer-readable storage medium according to claim 9, wherein the axis comprises one or more of the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis.

12. The at least one non-transitory computer-readable storage medium according to claim 9, wherein the selection of the segment among the plurality of segments is performed by a user interface device.

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